About a year ago, I bought a used empress JB-5, and it's great. I used to have a Fender Jazz V, and I prefer the G&L's narrower nut width, slightly tighter string spacing, much more rigid neck, lighter weight, and lower action. The Fender was very good, but the G&L is better, especially the neck IMO. The tone is fantastic too, but so was the Fender's.
My JB-5 was unfortunately afflicted with High Saddle Disease, as the G string saddle bottomed out. I got it professionally shimmed and set up, so it's in great shape now. (Apparently this isn't unusual on G&L basses, but this is my fifth and I've never encountered it before.)
So, my only issue is the standard 9.5" radius fretboard. I prefer flatter fretboards (at least 12"), especially on fives. It's a very comfortable neck and I enjoy playing it, but I know I'd like it much more with the optional 12" radius fretboard.
My JB-5 was unfortunately afflicted with High Saddle Disease, as the G string saddle bottomed out. I got it professionally shimmed and set up, so it's in great shape now. (Apparently this isn't unusual on G&L basses, but this is my fifth and I've never encountered it before.)
So, my only issue is the standard 9.5" radius fretboard. I prefer flatter fretboards (at least 12"), especially on fives. It's a very comfortable neck and I enjoy playing it, but I know I'd like it much more with the optional 12" radius fretboard.
